Hyderabad: The NIPHM plant health conference commenced in Hyderabad with experts calling for innovation to strengthen resilient agriculture and boost agri-exports.
The three-day National Conference on “Innovations in Plant Health Management for Resilient Agriculture and Agri-Export Promotion (IPHMRA – AEP)” is being held at the National Institute of Plant Health Management. NIPHM is organising the event under the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, in collaboration with leading scientific bodies.
Participating organisations include the Plant Protection Association of India, Entomological Society of India, Indian Ecological Society, Indian Society of Agricultural Engineers and the Indian Phytopathological Society.
The inaugural session was chaired by Dr. Sagar Hanuman Singh, Director General, NIPHM. Senior officials including Dr. Poonam Jasrotia of ICAR, Dr. J.P. Singh of DPPQS and Dr. S.N. Puri, former Vice Chancellor of CAU Imphal, attended the session.
NIPHM plant health conference highlights AI and export focus
In his address, Dr. Singh stressed the need to bring scientists, academia, farmers and industry stakeholders onto a common platform. He said coordinated efforts were essential to address plant health challenges and enhance agri-export potential.
Speakers discussed AI-driven pest diagnostics, remote sensing tools and biosecurity frameworks. They also highlighted research in natural farming and quality control of pesticides.
During the conference, organisers launched two Massive Open Online Courses on Store Grain Management and Appropriate Pesticide Management Techniques. The courses target extension officers, students and other stakeholders.
The programme includes plenary lectures, technical sessions, panel discussions, exhibitions and farmer-focused sessions on digital pest diagnosis and Integrated Pest Management. Organisers said the recommendations would strengthen plant health systems and promote innovation-driven, trade-safe agriculture amid climate challenges.